Physical Properties of Minerals

Dr. Ahmad Redaa

2024-09-16

Physical Properties of Minerals

Mineral Appearance: Luster

Source: https://slideplayer.com

Mineral Appearance: Transparency (diaphaneity)

Source: https://slideplayer.com

Mineral Appearance: Color

Examples of the colours of the minerals sulphur and hematite., Source: Earle, S. (2019)

Mineral Appearance: Streak

Source: Earle, S. (2019)

Mineral Appearance: Luminescence

Minerals under normal light (top) and their luminescent response under UV light (bottom), Source: https://www.earthsciences.hku.hk

Mineral Appearance: Play of Colors

Strength and Breaking: Tenacity

Strength and Breaking: Cleavage and Fracture

Source: Earle, S. (2019)

Strength and Breaking: Hardness

Source: https://www.nps.gov

Density and Specific Gravity

Source: https://byjus.com

Magnetism

Reaction to Dilute Hydrochloric Acid

Definition: Some minerals react by fizzing or bubbling when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid. - How to Examine: Apply a drop of acid and observe for fizzing. - Example: Calcite (reacts strongly), Dolomite (reacts weakly)